Application of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

Dr. Jeanette MacLean of Affiliated Children’s Dental Specialists, a pediatric dental practice in Metro Phoenix, Arizona, demonstrates the basic application process for silver diamine fluoride (SDF) to a toddler with severe early childhood caries (SECC). This simple, affordable, non-invasive treatment option is a wonderful alternative to deep sedation or general anesthesia to treat tooth decay in young children. It helps reduce the risks and costs associated with conventional surgical dental procedures, while improving health and access to care. The silver and fluoride act synergistically to arrest decay, kill bacteria, and remineralize your natural tooth structure. SDF is a wonderful option for those patients/families of young patients who wish to avoid or delay deep sedation and general anesthesia to treat cavities in primary teeth that will eventually exfoliate. While SDF does not provide an aesthetic treatment option, it can be combined with glass ionomer cement (GIC) for a procedure known as SMART. SMART is another non-invasive treatment option for cavities which can help mask the black “scar” left on SDF treated cavities.

*SDF and SMART are not options if in the presence of irreversible pulpitis, infection, abscess, or decay into the nerve.

SDF Application Tutorial with Advantage Arrest Silver Diamine Fluoride 38%